GE Healthcare has announced that it has received a grant of over $44 million from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to create user-friendly, AI-assisted ultrasound imaging auto-assessment tools. These tools will be used to provide clinical decision information to healthcare professionals, including those without specialized training or experience with ultrasound.
The goal of this initiative is to support more effective obstetric and lung screening ultrasound scans across maternal and fetal care, as well as pediatric lung health. The company aims to expand access to these tools in low-and-middle-income countries (LMIC) and various care settings.
This project was set in motion when GE Healthcare acquired Caption Health, an AI specialist, in February of this year. Caption Health will design the technology to be compatible with a range of ultrasound devices and probes, including lower-cost handheld devices.
GE Healthcare President and CEO of Ultrasound, Roland Rott, expressed enthusiasm for the grant, stating, “This grant will help bring Caption Health’s leading AI technology customized to more users, and therefore contribute to increased access to higher-quality medical care.”
The company’s focus on AI is evident as it continues to invest in this technology. Jan Makela, President and CEO of Imaging at GE Healthcare, emphasized the importance of AI in the company’s strategy, stating that it is a constant topic of discussion with customers.
The development of AI-assisted ultrasound imaging tools has the potential to revolutionize healthcare by increasing access to high-quality medical care in underserved areas. With GE Healthcare’s commitment to advancing AI solutions, the future of healthcare is looking increasingly promising.
Sources:
– Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
– MD+DI
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Definitions:
– AI: Artificial Intelligence
– Ultrasound: A medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize internal structures
– Low-and-middle income countries (LMIC): Countries with a gross national income per capita below a certain threshold
